Discover Leeds South Bank & The Tetley — a creative riverside district filled with art, culture, food, and history at the heart of the city’s regeneration.

A Creative Transformation on the River Aire

Looking for the future of Leeds? Head to Leeds South Bank, the city’s most exciting regeneration district. Once home to warehouses and breweries, this riverside area is now a thriving hub of art, design, business, and culture, symbolising Leeds’ transformation into one of the UK’s most dynamic urban centres.

At its heart stands The Tetley — a former brewery reborn as a centre for contemporary art, creativity, and community. Together, they showcase how heritage and innovation can shape the modern city.

From Industrial Past to Creative Future

The South Bank stretches from Leeds Dock to Holbeck, covering over 250 hectares of the city centre. Once filled with factories and rail depots, it’s being reinvented as a vibrant urban quarter combining living, learning, and leisure.

The transformation includes new parks, homes, and cultural spaces, while retaining the area’s historic red-brick character. The district is also home to Leeds College of Building, Leeds City College, and creative businesses that are shaping the city’s future.

The Tetley: Art in an Iconic Building

Housed in the former headquarters of the Tetley Brewery, The Tetley is one of Leeds’ leading centres for contemporary art. Opened in 2013, it offers free exhibitions, artist residencies, and community events in a Grade II-listed building that once brewed some of Yorkshire’s best-known beers.

What to See

Contemporary art exhibitions featuring emerging and established artists.

Workshops, talks, and family activities that bring art to life.

The Tetley Bar & Kitchen – Serving local food and craft beer in a stunning Art Deco setting.

It’s more than a gallery — it’s a social and creative hub for everyone.

Learn more on The Tetley’s official website

Art, Design & Community

Leeds South Bank celebrates creativity at every level. The area hosts public art installations, creative studios, and community projects that connect old and new Leeds.

Highlights include:

The Climate Innovation District – A forward-thinking neighbourhood combining sustainability and design.

Leeds Dock – A waterfront area with cafés, street art, and home to The Royal Armouries Museum.

Chow Down – A seasonal street-food market and event space.

See our guides on UK cultural quarters and creative spaces

Food, Drink & Riverside Living

South Bank’s food and drink scene is growing fast — blending independent cafés with contemporary dining.

Canteen & Cocktails – Laid-back dining in a converted industrial space.

Leeds Dock Kitchen – Great brunch and river views.

The Tetley Bar & Kitchen – Yorkshire-inspired dishes and local ales.

The area’s riverside walkways also make it perfect for a relaxing stroll or evening out with friends.

Innovation Meets Heritage

Leeds South Bank is part of the largest city-centre regeneration project in Europe, aiming to double the size of the city core. It’s a place where heritage buildings, street art, and sustainable design blend seamlessly.

The district’s identity reflects the Leeds spirit — creative, ambitious, and community-focused.

Getting There

Leeds South Bank is just minutes from the city centre:

By foot: 10-minute walk from Leeds Train Station.

By bus: Routes stop along Hunslet Road and Great Wilson Street.

By car: Parking available near Leeds Dock and The Tetley.

Cycling: Dedicated paths along the River Aire.

Why Visit Leeds South Bank & The Tetley?

The South Bank represents the best of modern Leeds — creative, sustainable, and full of character. From The Tetley’s art exhibitions to riverside walks and dockside cafés, it’s where the city’s past meets its progressive future.

Explore, eat, and be inspired in Leeds’ most exciting cultural quarter.